What to know about Removing Moss From Your Roof

Homeownership in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is undoubtedly one of the best investments you can make, but it also entails a longer list of maintenance and responsibilities. In this northern climate, one of the maintenance tasks you’ll encounter is dealing with moss growth on your roof.

If you happen to notice patches of green taking root on your roof, don’t be alarmed, but do address the issue promptly. Left unchecked, moss can establish itself between roof tiles, causing them to lift and potentially allowing moisture to penetrate, leading to rot.

First, Gather Your Essential Tools

When tackling roof maintenance, it’s crucial to have the right tools and safety equipment to ensure a safe and effective job.

You’ll need safety goggles, rubber gloves, a safety rope, slip-resistant footwear, a sturdy ladder, a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a scrub brush, a long-handled soft bristle brush, and a moss removal cleaner.

The Cleaning Process

Start by preparing the moss-covered area of the roof. This is a messy and wet task, so dress appropriately, wear old, water-resistant shoes with good traction, and be prepared to get a bit dirty. Cover nearby plants with plastic sheeting and ensure all your tools are readily accessible.

Once you’re geared up and the nearby plants are protected, begin by thoroughly wetting the moss-covered section of the roof with water. Work from the top of the area down toward the gutter. Always clean from top to bottom, which is also better for preserving the shingles.

With the area properly saturated, use a scrub brush or the long-handled soft bristle brush to gently remove as much moss as possible from the roofing. Work in small sections at a time to maintain control and avoid damaging the roofing. Remember to work in a downward motion to protect the shingles.

After removing as much moss as possible, it’s time to apply the moss removal cleaner to the affected roof area. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label carefully, often requiring a specified soaking time as indicated.

Once the cleaner has had time to work, rinse off the solution using the hose’s spray nozzle and use your scrub brush to address any remaining moss. Rinse everything clean once more.

Using a Pressure Washer

Greg Dallaire, Green Bay Realtor says, “Some individuals opt for a pressure washer to remove moss from a roof, but this should be done with extreme caution. It’s a riskier method because you’ll need to climb onto the roof, and it consumes more water compared to the brush and cleaner method.”

Ensure you use the pressure washer on the lowest setting only. Additionally, this method is only suitable for a roof in excellent condition without any damage or cracks in the shingles. Pressure washing a damaged area of the roof can introduce water where you don’t want it.

Tips for Preventing Moss Growth on Your Roof

To make moss cleaning more manageable, it’s advisable to limit and prevent moss growth in the first place. Moss thrives in moist and shaded areas on the roof, so consider trimming back any tree branches casting shadows on the roof.

Maintaining clean gutters and removing debris, such as leaves, from the roof, can help discourage moss growth. Installing zinc strips, available at home improvement stores, can also effectively minimize moss development.

The best approach to keep your Green Bay, Wisconsin home in prime condition is to proactively perform preventive maintenance, preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems.